Where to buy a face mask: your guide to the best places to order now

If you're still struggling with where to buy a face mask, this article is here to help. Perhaps you're unsure of what to look for, or confused about the different kinds of mask, and what works best against coronavirus. Or maybe you're wondering what your options are when it comes to reusable face masks, or are hunting for a face mask that'll fit a child. We've got the answers to all these questions and more – just read on ( or use the quick links in the boxout to jump straight to the section you want).

Face masks: Jump to the section you want

Most countries now recommend people wear face masks when out and about, especially in areas where places distancing is difficult. UK transport secretary Grant Shapps has said that from 15 June, face coverings will become compulsory on public transport – including buses, trains and tubes – in England. They are already advised.

While wearing a mask will not stop you from getting COVID-19, if you're carrying the virus but not aware of it, donning a face mask could help prevent others from catching it from you. The CDC added the wearing of face masks to its recommendations in early April, and in mid-May the UK government revised its official advice along the same lines.

With the coronavirus pandemic clearly sticking around for a while yet, it makes sense to invest in some reusable face masks for you and your family. Plenty of brands are producing face masks in all kinds of styles and fabrics for you to order – read on for our pick of the best places to buy a face mask right now.

Medical-grade face masks, including surgical masks and N95 masks, are in very short supply, so it's mainly non-medical face masks that are being recommended to the general public. For example, the UK document regarding face masks states: "A face covering is not the same as a facemask such as the surgical masks or respirators used as part of personal protective equipment by healthcare and other workers. These supplies must continue to be reserved for those who need it." We're focusing mainly on fabric face masks in this article.

Where to buy a face mask: Quick links

In a hurry? Here are our top picks for where to buy a face mask in the US and UK. Click to browse the ranges on offer, or read on for more details of different options, information on if you need to wear a mask, and buying advice.

Vistaprint face masks | US: $18 for one / UK: £17 for oneVistaprint's face masks are some of the most popular right now. They feature robust construction with reinforced stitching, and a 3-dimensional chin structure and a nose bridge for a snug fit. The design comes with a replaceable nanofiber filter. There are also plenty of designs to choose from, including some specifically for children.Free shippingView Deal

Where to buy a face mask in the United States

Non-medical masks:

Vistaprint – High quality, robust reusable masks with a built-in filter system

Should I be wearing a face mask?

The wearing of face masks and other mouth coverings continues to be a hot discussion topic, with official advice changing as we begin to understand more about COVID-19. At the start of April, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – the leading national public health institute in the US – altered its advice, and is now recommending people wear a non-medical face mask when out and about. Whether it's mandatory or not depends on which state you're in.

The UK added the wearing of face masks to its official advice in mid-May, following a statement made earlier in the month by Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon (read the full statement here). Guidelines advise citizens to wear mask in enclosed spaces and situations where it's difficult to social distance effectively, such as in the supermarket and on public transport.

What kind of face mask works best?

There are a lot of different types of face masks. The takeaway is that while medical grade respirator masks and surgical masks are the most effective, they're in extremely short supply around the world right now and should be reserved for healthcare workers. The general public should be opting for non-medical fabric face coverings. Here's a closer look at the different types of face mask.

Surgical masks

Surgical face masks are probably what you think of when you think of a face mask. These are disposable, single-use masks made from pleated synthetic fabric. The fabric is breathable and these masks don't form an airtight seal against the face. How well they filter pathogens varies according to different studies. They're in very short supply at the moment.

Respirator masks

Respirators are the most effective at filtering pathogens. These are fitted to the face and sealed to keep pathogens out, and tested rigorously by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

There are a few different types, with different efficiency rates. For particles 100-300 nanometres in size: N95 respirators can filter 95% of particles; N99 respirators filter 99% of particles; and N100 respirators filter 99.7% of particles. Coronavirus is estimated to be 125 nm in size.

Respirator masks are in short supply at the moment.

Fabric face masks

Finally, there's homemade fabric masks, which are the least effective of the bunch at filtering pathogens. However, the research we have so far suggests that wearing one is still much better than not wearing one when it comes to reducing the likelihood of you unknowingly passing on the virus to others.

There are a few elements that affect how effective cloth face masks are at filtering pathogens. One is the fabric it's made from – porous fabrics don't keep out tiny droplets very well. The CDC suggests two layers of tightly woven 100% cotton. Adding a filter, such as a coffee filter or paper towel, can help make your fabric face mask more effective.

Fit is also all-important. Gaps around your nose and jaw will make your mask much less effective. If your mask fits snugly around your nose and face, this should help improve the situation.

Can a face mask protect me from coronavirus?

The wearing of face masks is geared more towards keeping others healthy than protecting yourself; if someone with COVID-19 wears a face mask, this could prevent them from accidentally infecting other people. This is all the more important as the highest amount of viral transmission happens early on in the course of the disease, which means infected people may be contagious before they start showing symptoms.

A recent study from Hong Kong has found that wearing surgical masks could reduce the spread of COVID-19 by as much as 75%. A team of scientists in Hong Kong conducted a study using hamsters (more details here).

Some official bodies have been reluctant to recommend the wearing of face masks, fearing that it could have the knock-on effect of making people less disciplined about social distancing rules. There's also a massive shortage of medical-grade face masks, and encouraging everyone to wear one could reduce availability for those medical professionals and healthcare workers who need it most.

Where to buy a face mask in the US

In the US, plenty of brands have shifted their usual production line to include face masks in response to the COVID-19 crisis. Lots of suppliers are also doing their bit to help by adopting a buy-one-donate-one approach, or donating profits to COVID response efforts.

Face masks | $18 for one at VistaprintThese masks aren't the cheapest in this list, but a durable construction, quality fabrics, and free shipping mean they're some of the most popular. These face masks feature reinforced stitching, a 3-dimensional chin structure and a nose bridge that will withstand thousands of bends, plus a nanofiber filter (you can also purchase replacement filters). There are also some kids' options.Free shippingView Deal

Medical face masks | 50 for $29.99 at NewEggIf you're working in a healthcare capacity, head to NewEgg to pick up these medical face masks. There's a limit of one per customer, but there's 50 in a box so it'll last you a while. Ships from the United States, and delivery times are super-speedy.View Deal

The Purple Face Mask | 2 for $20 at PurpleSuper-popular mattress brand Purple has harnessed its expertise to create what might be the comfiest face mask around. There's Hyper-Elastic Polymer gel for super-stretchy ear bands that won't lose their shape or make your ears sore, and moisture-wicking Breeze Mesh for a breathable but effective mouth cover.View Deal

Cotton face masks | 5 for $30 at Tie BarAt just $6 a mask, you'll struggle to get cheaper than these fabric face masks at Tie Bar. They look super-smart too: there's a range of styles, patterns and colour palettes to pick from. View Deal

Reusable face masks | 5 for $25 at Reformation
Free shipping – Pick up a multi-pack of 5 face masks at Reformation, and you can buy another set to donate to those in need. It works out at a bargain price of just $5 a mask, and your order will ship in 3-7 days.View Deal

Ace face masks | $19 for one at RendallCoThese face masks are designed and made in LA. They're made from smart indigo chambray, denim, ticking stripe and dot patterns (all 100% woven cotton), and there's a copper nose strip to ensure a close fit.Shipped 2 weeks from order dateView Deal

100% cotton face masks | $14.50 for one at Bomme Studio
Free same-day shipping! Bomme Studio is selling dual-layer face masks made from sustainably made, upcycled 100% cotton fabric. These face masks have been designed in line with CDC recommendation and are being manufactured in LA, California. If you order on a weekday, there's free same-day shipping too. View Deal

Protective face mask with filter | $10 for 1 at VidaVida face masks include a multi-layer PM2.5 Filter featuring 2 layers of Meltblown Filter and 1 layer of Carbon Activated Fabric, to effectively filter out particles. There are also adjustable straps and an integrated metal strip to keep the fit snug around your nose. Pick up one for $10 or get a multipack for a discount. Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up.View Deal

Disposable face masks | Available to bulk buy at Gear BestIf you're a carer or need a medical-grade face mask, head to Gear Best. There are plenty of multipacks available to order right now, many with discounts (including a surprising number of flash sales) and speedy shipping options available. View Deal

Subzero face masks | From $19 each (+ one donated)Subzero has a range of alternative face mask designs available to order, from Day of the Dead-style skulls to lips, smiley faces and even some glow-in-the-dark options. It's operating a buy-one-donate-one system, so when you order a mask, another will go to an at-risk individual.View Deal

Shop US sellers of handmade face masks at EtsyEtsy is a treasure trove of handcrafted face masks right now. There are options in a variety of sizes and fabrics, so you'll be able to find one you like. For a simple style that ships quickly, try BKBTailoring.View Deal

Liberty Elizabeth face mask | $40 at AraksIf you're after something a little more luxe, head to Araks. There are a range of high-quality, 100% cotton face masks available to order now. For every purchase, a medical-grade mask will go to a healthcare professional. View Deal

Reusable face masks | $25 for 5 at CaraaBag maker Caara's face masks are constructed out of repurposed materials from its production line, to minimise waste. The company is currently donating 5% of all sales to the WHO's COVID-19 Response Funds (and you can also buy a pack to donate, if you want). They're reusable, hand-washable, and comfortable, and should ship on or before 1 June.View Deal

Protective face mask | $16.99 for 2 at SilkiesWith a hydrophobic finish to repel bodily fluids, these face masks from Silkies are machine washable and reusable. They're made in the USA and available to order now. View Deal

Cotton face mask | $30 for 3 at Los Angeles ApparelThese face masks are 100% cotton and can be adjusted to fit snugly around your nose. They're made of machine-washable, thick French Terry fabric, available in a whole load of different colourways. Constructed in the US.View Deal

Organic cotton face mask | $39 for 6 at NaturepedicOhio-based bedding company Naturepedic has designated a portion of its factory to face mask production. These masks are made with two layers of 100% organic cotton, certified to the GOTS organic standard, with adjustable straps to keep the mask secure. They're produced and sold at cost and not for profit, and there's a 5-7 business day shipping time. View Deal

Buff multifunctional neck gaiter | From $15 at REI Co-opOutdoor brand Buff makes popular multi-functional neck gaiter that can be used as a great makeshift face mask. There are a variety of styles and patterns to choose from, suitable for men or women. Pop it round your neck and then pull it up over your mouth as needed. It's seam free, lightweight, machine-washable and breathable, making it perfect for warmer weather.Available nowView Deal

Convertible face masks | From $16 at ZapposIf you're looking for something a little more full-coverage, or live in a colder area, these convertible face masks from Zappos could be ideal for you. They're designed to fit over the head, with a panel that can be pulled up and over the mouth as required. View Deal

Kids' face masks | $10.99 at NuzzlesIf you have little 'uns who are resistant to donning a mask, this could help: Nuzzles makes a range of super cute face masks designed especially to appeal to kids. Suitable for children over two years old, these are made from skin-friendly, soft, breathable cotton. Shipping is free in the US.

Classic face mask | $14.99 for 10 at maskdThis multipack of simple black or white face masks offers perhaps the best value for money – it's just $1.49 per mask. The company is donating 10% of total proceeds, and a mask, for every order. Masks are made from 100% cotton. View Deal

Adult and child face masks | From $10 for 1 at SavilinoSavilino usually makes custom aprons and leather goods for restaurants, but at the moment it's making face masks. The company is based in Austin, and has been able to hire dozens of out of work tailors to ramp up production to over 2,000 masks per day. Buy a child's mask for $10 or an adult mask for $12, or purchase in bulk for a discount. View Deal

DIOP face masks | $15 at DIOPDetroit-based DIOP makes streetwear inspired by the African diaspora, including these face masks based on mudcloth from Mali and handmade in Baltimore. The brand has donated over $6,000 to Feed The Frontlines, the Southwest Detroit Mutual Aid Fund, and Power a Business & Feed The Homeless.

Cotton face masks | $25 for 5 at MatteoPick up a set of five masks for just $25 at Matteo. Each double-layered mask is 100% cotton with 100% linen ties, and has a pocket for a you to put a filter in if you have one. They're sustainable, reusable and washable. You can also purchase masks to donate to communities in need. View Deal

Fabric face masks | $9.99 for 1 at Swaddle DesignsSwaddle Designs is another company that has switched its focus in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The founder, an ex-nurse, swapped production from baby blankets to face masks. These 2-layer non-medical masks are available to buy now, as a single mask or a bulk purchase.View Deal

Biodegradable face masks | From $12.99 for 3 (+ one donated) at COVRUPFor an eco-friendly option, head to COVRUP. These face masks are not only reusuable and machine-washable, but they're biodegradable, so they won't end up clogging up landfill. Plus, for every order, a mask will be donated. Made in the USA and available in child, medium and large sizes. View Deal

Inkerman Anti-microbial face masks | Buy 3, donate 3 for $20Inkerman is an NYC-based shoe company that has reallocated all of its resources to non-medical mask production. The company is selling them for no profit, matching all purchases one-to-one, donating masks to NYC essential workers. You can purchase 3 for yourself, and donate 3 for $20.View Deal

Washable cloth face mask | $25 for 5 at RadianThee face masks are made from a double layer of jersey knit fabric (60% cotton, 40% polyester), with elastic ear loops. You can pick up a 5-pack, in shades of grey, black, green and blue, at Jeans company Radian. It ships in 3-5 business days, and for every pack purchased, Radian will donate a pack.View Deal

Disposable face masks | 100 for $79.78 from Mask CentralIf you need disposable face masks, head to Mask Central, which is selling them in bulk. Smaller pack sizes have sold out, but you can still order 100 or more. These are CE-certified and made up of a three layers to effectively block and filter out particles and droplets in the air. Please only purchase if you're working in a carer / healthcare capacity.View Deal

Homemade face masks | From $9.99 for 1 at GoimagineGoimagine is a new venture – a handmade marketplace that donates 100% of its profits to charity. It specifically supports non-profit organisations focused on the needs of children experiencing homelessness and hunger. At the moment there are whole range of face masks on there, from under $10.View Deal

Akings first aid face masks | $1 per maskIf you're after a disposable face mask, these are on sale at Akings. It's a dollar a mask, and you can buy in quantities of 10, 50 or 100 masks. A portion of profits is going towards donating supplies to local communities. Available to backorder.View Deal

SOLD OUT Camo or leopard print face | $12 at The Sis KissFashion brand The Sis Kiss is producing cool camo and leopard print face masks. They're 100% cotton with elastic straps, and suitable for both men and women. View Deal

Where to buy a face mask in the UK

The UK is currently a little bit behind the US when it comes to companies switching production to non-medical masks, but there are still places you can order one if you know where to look. Online marketplaces such as Etsy are a great place to start.

Face masks | £17 for one at VistaprintVistaprint is one of the few official brands in the UK where you can buy face masks. They look to be good quality and well engineered, with a 3-dimensional chin structure and a nose bridge for a snug fit with minimal leakage, plus a replaceable nanofiber filter.Free shipping.View Deal

Shop UK sellers of handmade face masks at EtsyEtsy is a veritable treasure trove of face masks right now, for shoppers around the world. There are options in all sizes and styles, so you'll be able to find one to suit you. Go for plain cotton or cheer yourself up with something more colourful (there are even Disney and Harry Potter options).View Deal

Buff face coverings | From £14.35 at GoOutdoorsBuff has long been a favourite of hikers and outdoor-lovers with its multi-functional tubular headwear. It can be worn as a neckerchief, then pulled up to become a face mask, and the lightweight, breathable fabric is perfect for warmer weather. These are slightly more expensive than many dedicated face masks, but you'll be able to continue using it after the pandemic is over. View Deal

HYPE face masks | £24.99 for 3 (and one donated)Pick up a pack of these quirky-looking face masks, and HYPE will donate one to the NHS, a care home or another key worker in need. There are lots of cool designs to choose from, including speckle fade, camo and tie-dye.View Deal

Buff face coverings | From £12 at Cotswold OutdoorOutdoor brand Buff is known for its multi-functional tubular headwear. Wear it as a neckerchief, then pull it up over your mouth to act as a face mask when needed. And because it's designed for sportwear, it's perfect for warmer weather – the fabric is lightweight and breathable, seam-free, and blocks UV rays. Bonus: you'll be able to continue using it after the pandemic is over.View Deal

Shop all fabric face masks at ebayThe search results are a little more hit-and-miss, but there are still plenty of good face mask options available on ebay. Make sure you check delivery schedules before ordering.View Deal

Star-print cotton face masks | £12 each at Lulu&NatThese simple, pleated face masks are made with two layers of soft 100% cotton, and a removable inner filter (one supplied). The elastic can either be tied around your ears or the back of your head, and there are a child and adult size options available.View Deal

Man, Woman or Child face masks | From £13 for 2 at Marta ScarampiMarta Scarampi makes a range of different face masks. There are pleated and non-pleated styles, sized for men, women, and children (you can pick up a multi-pack for the whole family). They're shipping from Italy, but delivery time is estimated at a week.

Nonwoven Spunbond Polyproylene masks | 2 for £50 from Edeline LeeDesigner Edeline Lee is running a not-for profit project producing face masks. They're made from the same material as surgical masks, feature a bendable wire nose piece and are designed to fit the face snugly with no gaps. Each purchase covers the materials and logistical costs of a further 80 volunteer-made masks to be donated to frontline workers.View Deal

Cotton face masks | £11.95 at Reusable Cotton MasksThese cotton face masks are made in Latvia, but there's free shipping to the UK if you spend over £20 (so you'd need to buy a couple). There are a few nice patterns to choose from, as well as an Adult and Kid size option.View Deal

Head tubes | From £4.99 at Mountain WarehouseAnother great alternative face mask is a head tube – pop it round your neck and then pull it up to cover your mouth when required. Mountain Warehouse has a variety of reasonable ones (see Women's selection here). Some are wooly ones, which aren't ideal for this purpose, but there are also plenty of summer-friendly, lightweight options.View Deal

Where to buy face masks in Australia

200pcs Disposable Face Mouth Mask 3 Layer with Elastic Ear Loop | AU$129.99 at KoganThese are your standard, disposable face masks with three layers of fabric and a filtration efficiency of 94% – the only difference is there’s a lot of them, 200 in fact! So if you’re after a boat-load of face masks, you should consider looking at this deal from Kogan.View Deal

10 Pcs Face Masks Anti Dust Filter | AU$18.50 at eBayYou can grab these face masks from eBay in either a 10 or 20 pack with no restrictions on the amount you’re able to purchase. The seller claims they will dispatch the same day so if you’re in desperate need of face masks, definitely worth paying this online-store a visit! View Deal

3-ply Surgical Face Mask Vira-free (Single Use) 10 Pack | AU$16.45 from SuperiorhealthcareWe must admit, these are pretty darn cute! These home-made face masks in adorable cherry fabric are machine washable so you can wear it as many times as you like. You can grab yours on eBay and it will be shipped to your door within a couple of days.View Deal

Designer Face Mask made with cherry fabric | AU$10 at ebayWe must admit, these are pretty darn cute! These home-made face masks in adorable cherry fabric are machine washable so you can wear it as many times as you like. You can grab yours on eBay and it will be shipped to your door within a couple of days.View Deal

Blue Disposable Surgical Face Masks 3 Ply With Earloop Latex Free | AU$7.95 at Dick SmithIf you’re after just one (or a couple) face masks without purchasing the whole kit-and-kaboodle, this deal is for you. These latex free, 3-ply layer surgical masks will offer you the protection you’re looking for without breaking the bank.View Deal

DOCHEM Premium Elite Disposable Surgical Face Mask 3-ply with Earloop Plus - 25 Masks | AU$75 at ThePharmacyDochem is a professional manufacturer of high quality dental and medical disposable supplies so you know these face masks come from a reputable source. With a proven BFE (Bacterial Filtration Efficiency) of 99.3% and CE certification, you’ll feel like a medical professional while also protecting yourself against airborne germs.View Deal

Fabric Face Mask Made in Australia - Black | AU$16.95 ateBayMade in Australia, these washable and reusable face masks are suited for the eco-conscious. Offering four layers of 100% cotton fabric (including an inner bamboo layer) with elastic ear loops, these face masks will keep you protected from the air-born nasties floating around while doing your bit for the environment. View Deal

50 X Protective Disposable Face Mask Medical Masks 3 Layer | AU$61 at BecextecLike the deal above, these face masks offered by Becextec are great if you want to purchase a bulk supply. Perfect storing in your home, car, purse or your child's back-pack ready for when they go back to school.View Deal

150 X Protective Disposable Face Mask Medical Masks 3 Layers | AU$147 at BecextecDo you have a big family and need a lot of face masks to hand around? Well this 150 pack of disposable medical face masks will surely come in handy. Made with three-layers, non-woven fiber and soft, breathable fabric, these throwaway face marks will provide an extra layer of protection against transferable germs.View Deal

How to make your own face mask

Can't get hold of a face mask, or want to leave the remaining stocks for medical professionals? It's relatively easy to make your own basic face mask, and you don't even need specialist equipment.

Here's a short video showing you how to make a homemade face mask using a T-shirt, scarf or bandana.

The CDC recommends "wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission".